Root Canals

When there has been damage to the roots or nerves of a tooth, a dentist will typically recommend a surgical dental procedure called a root canal. This damage can be caused by trauma, cavities, or bacteria. It involves removing the nerves and pulp from the inside of the tooth's roots, filling them, and strengthening the outer tooth with a crown or other alternative option.

A root canal is a more invasive procedure that involves making an opening on the top of the tooth. The inside of the tooth, typically the canals of the roots of the tooth (hence the name) is cleaned out so that all the infection and effected areas are removed. If anything is left behind, bacteria can continue to grow even after the root canal has been performed. The dentist then seals the canal.

Many times a dentist will also place a crown on top of the tooth. This is because a tooth can become very brittle and weak once the blood supply and nerves have been removed from the canals of the tooth's roots. This is similar to what happens to a tree branch on a tree that has died - the branches become weak and brittle due to a lack of nutrition and water.

There are two types of root canals. One is called a single root canal, which is when the procedure is done on the front teeth. But as you go further back into the mouth, you have your molar teeth, which have three and sometimes four roots. They take much longer and require more skill and expertise to conduct what is called a molar root canal.

Root canals can help ease any pain or discomfort that a patient might be experiencing due to bacterial growth, trauma, or a cavity that was left untreated. They are many times necessary in order to save a tooth and keep the tooth from further damage or discomfort.